On 18 June, 2019, exactly 175 years to the hour, on the very street corner in Nauvoo, Illinois, where he delivered his last public address on the banks of the Mississippi River, I had the honor of re-enacting this speech by Joseph Smith, Jr.
I was cast in this role late last year in preparation for the 175 year commemoration this summer. It was the chance of a lifetime because at the 200 year commemoration, I will be too old to portray Joseph Smith, Jr.
As I performed his character, the graves of Joseph Smith, Jr., and his family were only meters away across the street. The men on the reviewing stand with me were each blood descendants of their characters. The event was produced by Community of Christ, and the wardrobe was provided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The historic YPM Nauvoo Brass Band performed the commemoration’s overtures and far more interfaith community members contributed in numerous ways.
(Videographers: Susan and Lee Wakefield)